Why Does Alcohol Make Me Nauseous?
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Many of us have experienced this: we gather at our favorite bar, one round of drinks leads to another, and before we know it we’re feeling queasy. The nausea hits and our night of fun abruptly takes an unpleasant turn, ending with, well, puking after drinking.
Sound familiar? If you’ve ever wondered why alcohol can make us feel sick, read on! Let’s discuss the biology behind alcohol-induced nausea, throwing up after drinking, and hangover nausea cures.
Let's start with the basics. Our body sees alcohol — chemically known as ethanol — as a toxin. This means that once it’s consumed, our body immediately gets to work trying to get rid of it. Our liver plays the starring role in this detoxification process. It produces an enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), which breaks ethanol down into acetaldehyde. This acetaldehyde is then transformed (by an enzyme, ALDH) into a harmless substance called acetate.
The problem arises when we consume alcohol faster than our liver can metabolize it. In such scenarios, acetaldehyde (a very toxic, arcinogenic compound) accumulates in our body, leading to headaches and unwelcome nausea. The result? We end up throwing up after drinking.
But how does this translate into nausea? Well, that's where our gastrointestinal system comes into play. Alcohol irritates the stomach lining, which can cause its muscles to contract. This, in turn, prompts our stomach to empty its contents sooner than it usually would, leading to that dreaded nausea and vomiting.
Moreover, alcohol causes our stomach to produce more acid than usual, which can result in gastritis — a fancy term for inflammation of the stomach lining. This inflammation can cause a variety of GI symptoms, with nausea being one of the main ones.
Our brain, the command center of our body, has its own role to play in this nauseating drama. When alcohol enters our bloodstream, it impacts a part of the brain called the area postrema, the "vomiting center." This area is responsible for recognizing toxins in the blood and triggering vomiting as a defense mechanism to expel these toxins (in this case, alcohol).
Ever noticed how some people seem to handle their alcohol better than others? Genetics plays a pivotal role in our body's response to alcohol. Some of us are genetically predisposed to produce less of the enzyme ALDH, which means acetaldehyde isn’t broken down as efficiently. This can lead to an accumulation of acetaldehyde, resulting in more intense symptoms of nausea after drinking.
Last but not least, let’s talk about hangovers. When we consume alcohol, our body prioritizes getting rid of it, pushing aside other important processes. One of the most important processes neglected by our liver while drinking is the production of glucose. This pause can cause our blood sugar levels to drop, resulting in feelings of fatigue, weakness, and — yes — nausea.
To help ease the nausea that often follows a night of drinking, try these tips:
Understanding the science of alcohol-induced nausea can be a great motivator for making more mindful decisions about our drinking habits. Here are some practical steps you can take to ensure a healthier relationship with alcohol:
Alcohol’s effects on our body differ from person to person thanks to the complex blend of biochemistry, genetics, and personal tolerance. Thankfully, understanding individual factors influencing why alcohol makes us nauseous can open the door to more mindful drinking. By taking practical steps towards moderation, we can enjoy our night out without the dreaded nausea as a next-day reminder.
Ready to make nausea-free nights your new normal? The Reframe app is here to help! While it's not a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), our app is packed with research-driven insights to guide you every step of the way. We’ve been helping millions of people across the globe embrace a less alcohol-centered life, and we're certain that we can do the same for you!
The Reframe app comes loaded with knowledge and practical skills to help you not just get by, but actually thrive as you dial back on the drinks. Each day, we offer you a taste of the science behind alcohol use via our research-based readings. Plus, our in-app Toolkit is a treasure chest of resources and activities to help you overcome each and every hurdle.
And guess what? You're not alone! Meet Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom meetings. Share your journey with folks from all over the world who totally get what you're going through. Need a little extra guidance? You can also connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for a more personalized touch.
We're always on the lookout for ways to make your journey easier and more engaging. Recently, we've introduced Melody, our new in-app chatbot powered by the best AI tech around, to offer you more support. And the fun doesn't stop there! Each month, we roll out exciting challenges like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. Whether you participate as a team or prefer going solo, they provide great opportunities to challenge yourself.
Ready for more good news? The Reframe app is free for the first 7 days, so you really have nothing to lose by giving it a go. Are you ready to seize control and explore life with less (or no) alcohol? If so, just hit that download button!
Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.